Hey guys been lurking this thread for awhile, and have finally decided to take the plunge for myself. I'm planning a month long training vacation to Thailand after fall semester of college this year, preferably after New Year. I currently train western boxing at a Mexican style gym and am planning on starting bjj next month, so I wont be a complete noob, but I've never done any form of Kickboxing/Muay Thai. My main focus is technique, clinching, high level private instruction, cleanliness of facilities, and hopefully a more modern style conditioning regiment (not entirely pertinent if other requirements are met). I'm going for a month and would really like to get the most out of my training, getting some kind of infection that could cut my training short, would be a real bummer.
Originally I was planning on going to Phulet Top Team in Chalong, Phuket because the facilities look clean and they offer private Muay Thai lessons at a reasonable price. I was expecting to pay 22,000 baht for 1 month of unlimited classes and 20 private lessons. Plus I figured I can hop into one of the other classes if I was feeling burnt out, or felt like trying something different. However, after reading this thread I realized I could be getting more for money by training only Muay Thai, I mean it is why we're traveling all the way to Thailand after all. So guy's I humbly ask for your advice. What do you recommend I do? I'm from California, will be traveling out of LAX, and am hoping to keep a budget of $2500 USD (flight included 600-800 out of LAX).
I really don't mind what city I travel to as long as the instruction focuses on what I outlined, the facilities are clean, and I'm able to put in lot's of private hours within my budget. Though I was planning a trip to Phuket, my focus is improving in Muay Thai as much as possible in a month, as long as I can relax after training, I'll be fine. I would also like if the conditioning was more modern and performance based, but this isn't a deal breaker as long as there are plenty or recovery options near the gym or my accommodation.
Also please let me know if there is anything I'm not asking that maybe I should be. This will be my first time out the country that isn't Mexico (or forced overseas camping trip) so I may be over looking a few things. Really stoked to finally be going, can't wait to hear your guy's advice. Also in before:
Edit:
Also I'd like to avoid injuries, and be in shape when I arrive, so I focus on technique. Not worrying about getting my conditioning up to par. I'm going to focus on distance running since most camps have you run 6-10 miles daily.
Anything else I should focus on? I already do calisthenics and KB explosive routine (deadlifts, cleans, snatches, squat, rows, bench press) with 2x50 lb Kettlebells. Was thinking about adding some rings to my routine for added core strength, and body control.